The Ray Family

Exciting News!!!

2012-01-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

Ok so the exciting news is that we are ADOPTING!!!

We found out shortly after Christmas that we had been choosen to be parents to a sweet angel. The birthmother is a sweet young woman who is make the most selfless act we know. She is an amazing person and we are enjoying getting to know her. She is beautiful both inside and out. She will be considered an angel in our book for all time. Brandon and I are realy excited and nervous all rolled into one. We have really tried to keep our heads about us incase things turn out differently than what we are planning on.

Our birthmother is part native and we are very excited to learn more about her culture so that we can instill some of her culture and upbringing into our daughters life. We don't know too much about the birthfather but we know that he is an amazing youngman. We hope to be able to keep intouch with them through this amazing journey.

We have started putting the nursery together and each time we add something to it we get that much more excited. We don't hav much time to prepare...she is due to make her entrance in March...so we are working very hard to get everything ready!

We are so amazingly grateful for this wonderful, amazing, young woman and hope that she knows how much we love and admire her. We will try to keep you updated with all of the exciting details.

If any of you have any advice for the new parents to be please share it with us...we make look like what we are doing all the time with neices and nephews but we can always use good advice... Thanks for all of your love and support.

Please keep us all in your prayers as we keep you in ours.

More Anniversary Fun!

2012-01-28T13:09:00.001-08:00

Well I know it has been way to long....just thought I would share a few more pictures from our adventures....

Yep we took time for a movie....

we took time to cook... and boy did we cook....

I would have to say this was one of the most delicious meals we had during our whole trip. We also had a lot of fun just playing around on the beach and exploring...

Isn't he handsome....

Do I make a pretty cute Pocahontas don't I...

Yep even the dog had fun...

Yep we found some flowers and .....

Lots and lots of rocks....we had so much fun! We also decided that we should take an adventure to Seldovia....we started on the ferry...

we had a lot of fun there....here is a look at what we did...

Brandon making the arrangements to use one of those fun carts...

We rented this for an hour and we drove all around Seldovia and still had time to spare...but oh it was fun!

and we had a lot of fun eating there as well...the little place we ate at was very cute and very delicious...

After we had the delicious sandwiches we had wonderful icecream. After that we walked the docks, as many of you know is a tradition, it was a very nice day...

We truly had so much fun and enjoyed just spending time with one another. We hoped that you enjoyed what we shared, of course their was so much more but we are keeping those memories to ourselves!

Anniversary Fun 2011

2011-12-17T12:58:00.000-08:00

Ok so I know that this is way over due, but I had some family and friends asking to see our Anniversary trip this year, so here it is......

We started out camping on the side of the river, right on the road...definitely as first for both of us

Then we started to fox Island bright and early the next morning.

To get to Fox Island we took a water taxi with all of our gear, we even took Drake (the dog) and he seemed to enjoy the boat ride, he did really well actuallly....

After we were dropped off onto the Island we decided to go on an exploration of the Island....

We found this starfish which was very amusing to watch....

It was fun to walk around the Island and know that it was just the two of us...we found so many fun stumps and of course a lot of rocks to take fun pictures by...

and more stumps and rocks.....

You know you can never have to many pictures in front of or on or by a stump or log or rocks....

We had so much fun just exploring and spending time with one another....

I think that even Drake enjoyed our walk around the Island. It was fun to see that the Island was so diverse from one side to the other....one was filled with lots of large rocks and the other was small rocks and sand...but it was all beautiful in its own way...

After we explored we decided to set up camp and get something to eat....

I did say something to eat right...well this is Brandon's idea of food...I had a different idea....

I think that he had one thing on his mind and that was it.....yep you guessed it "FISHING"! I think that he could have stayed there forever if he could just fish all day and all night....
After dinner, which is much easier made with utensils..yep we forgot cooking utensils...we had a very interesting time cooking on our adventure, we had fun fishing. The next day we went exploring and this is what we found.....

We found this amazing rock...with an amazing view....

We had a lot of fun taking pictures.....

more to come later......

Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer - Susan G. Komen for the Cure Philadelph...

2011-12-17T12:13:00.000-08:00

What an inspiring video! The Komen for the Cure has helped so many women, including myself! These beautiful women are cheering for the best team ever, LIFE!!! Wish I could have been apart of it!!! It looks like it was so much fun!!! Enjoy!!!

Fairbanks and snow!

2011-11-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

The white stuff is here! Normally I would be very excited for a white Christmas but I am not sure that I am going to be that excited this year! I think once I start listening to the beautiful music and start seeing more of those wonderful Christmas lights appear maybe I will get more excited. I am just getting "Cabin Fever" I guess you could say. It is so dark here in the winter and I am sure missing those beautiful sunsets from home. We have about a foot or so that I get to tromp through anytime I go to the truck, boy am I missing a nice enclosed garage, any type of garage is better than no garage at all.
Yesterday on my way to church the truck vapor locked, I was a 1/2 hour late for church, and ended up sitting in the foyer the whole time, the only perk was that I got to see Sister Baker. She too has just arrived in Fairbanks. Seeing a familiar face yesterday was what I needed to bring me back down to warm and cozy. On my way home yesterday after Brandon had fixed the truck and traded me for the escape, the escape decided to die on me, I guess sitting with it idling with the lights on was not the smartest thing I could have done but it just wasn't what I needed, thank heavens Brandon was able to come and safe me yet again.
One lesson learned yesterday for sure was that I need my snow gear with me where ever it is I go. You never know when you are going to get stuck on the side of the road in below zero temperatures. I definitely got the I told you so from Brandon on that one. But I have to say I am SOOOOOOO grateful for him and his williness to come and safe me when I am needing to be saved. I guess it could have been worse, I could have been in the ditch again and then I would have been really stuck. Oh how I love the snow!
Now that the snow has fallen, you know it hasn't dumped it all yet, I just need to get into that wonderful winter spirit. Bundle up my friends I hear it is going to be a cold one tonight!!

Adoption

2011-11-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

Well as many of you know Brandon and I have moved from Wasilla to Fairbanks. With this move brings new adventures and new trials. We are learning to be more conservative with water, wood, and our patience. But the one thing that is always difficult about a move is that our adoption profile is put on hold until we update all of the important documents that go along with trying to adopt. We are discouraged that we are "off-line" currently with our adoption profile, but we hope that our friends and families will continue to keep us in their prayers and keep their ears open for leads per say for opportunities for us to increase our family.

We truly have been blessed to have been living in the Wasilla area, we have made so many friendships that will last a life time. We were so blessed to be with Brandon's mom and can't express our appreciation for her. My parents also helped to make our last couple of years managable. Thanks does not even begin to repay them.

We have secured a rental home just a little bit outside of the main town of Fairbanks up on Chena Ridge drive. It is very unique to what we are use to living in, but it is all ours. It has two bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, a large living/kitchen area and a blaze king fireplace, a small artic entry, and of course NO garage. Things are starting to settle in and I am on the search for a new job, something that is always one of my favorite things to do, NOT!!! Brandon has been very supportive and is making sure that I stay nice and warm! It is amazing just how much colder it is here in Fairbanks vs Wasilla. I am adjusting though. I can successfully get from the house to Home Depot without getting lost so that is always a blessing! I will post some pictures as soon as I get them down loaded, but until then here are some pictures of our adventure getting here....hope that you enjoy it!

Funny how my car seems to be fuller than his..... but that is totally not the case, he had all the firewood!

And down the road we go.....

Until next time..........

Fall Adventures

2011-11-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share a few pictures from one of our Fall adventures!

This scrapbooking design personalized with Smilebox

Summer has begun!!!

2011-07-03T00:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have been really bad at blogging! I know that I need to blog more often for those of you that only see me every 5 years and those that I don't get to see ever! So here it what has happened in pictures since school got out in May! Hope you like them..........

We watched moose in our back yard......

Went to a Joe Diffy Concert.......

We played with Raylee......

Watched a few movies for date night........

We celebrated Ann's and Susie's Birthdays......

I went to Girls Camp.......Survived........

Went to Jim's Creek for a little fun......

Went for bike rides......

Took a family vacation to Homer...... Where we......

Went Clamming........and ........

We had a picnic ........ and we ........

Took lots of pictures by big fish......... because we could only catch.....

The little fish after we had fished and fished and fished..........

But we had fun so we decided to keep........

Eating and fishing and having a wonderful time! We enjoyed the ......

Ocean and beach........

The eagles ...... and .........

Beautiful sunsets! When the journey was done we .........

slept, and then we started our next journey!

Brandon and I always like to take road trips, they are never very far but they are always fun. This week during his day off we decided to go to Whitter......this is what we found.......

Before you actually get to Whitter you have to wait to go through the tunel. The unique thing about the tunel is that the train also goes through this tunel and so you have to wait your turn. Why we waited we studied the map......

When the light turns green you are free to go through....

And when the lights green you get to proceed.....

And our journey began......

and when you get to the other side ........

It was a little rainer than we were expecting but we made the best of it. We found some beautiful spots to take some amazing pictures.....

We had so much fun just spending time together.....

Making sure we enjoyed the day......

We know we are crazy but.........

we have so much fun with one another........

we had a lot of fun and I am so glad that we took this time just for us. I hope that we get to do it again really soon.

Mother's

2011-05-08T23:34:00.000-07:00

This is my amazing Mother and Grandma (her Mom)

I know that most of us feel that our Mom is the BEST mother in the world, well I really believe that I do. My mother has always been there for me no matter what the situation or the need. I believe it is because she has the BEST mother in the world too!
On this day that we are given to celebrate mothers I am so grateful to be able to reflect upon all that our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and sisters in the gospel have done for us. I truly have been blessed to have these amazing women in my life. How wonderful it is that we have opportunities in our lives that we can learn from one another. I know that I have learned so many things from the women in my life. Their examples have been countless! I am amazed at how much love, compassion, charity, and devotion they show to me and their families. Thank you so much for sharing these precious truths and characteristics with me.
I hope that when I have the opportunity to be a mother that I will be able to incorporate these same qualities myself. Until that time comes I guess I will just have to practice on those around me. Thank you Mom for loving me!
One of my favorite lyrics from a song is:
My mother could have been an actress, my mother could have been a star, but she choose something more important, my mother chose to be my MOM!out there!
How grateful I am that my mother chose to be my MOM! Her example keeps me going!

These are my amazing Sisters!

This is my mother-in-law and sisters-in-law!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you mother's

Adoption

2011-02-26T14:22:00.000-08:00

Today I have been thinking a lot about what it is that I truly want my life to be. As many of you know life doesn't ask us what we want before things are put in our path that does not really work into what we have planned or scheduled. I have wanted to be a mother since I can remember, my goals as a small girl were very simple, perform on broadway, get married, have a fammily and to teach.
Well, I didn't get to perform on broadway but I did get to perform in several schools around Utah, Nevada, Colorado, California, Tahiti, and England. I think that will be ok for that goal.

I married one of the most amazing men I know and love him so very much. I couldn't accomplish what I do without him right by my side to help me through all of the ugliness that life has thrown at me.

I am alomost finished with my teaching degree and actually have the opportunity right now to work in a school that allows me to help with teaching the children to read and to be safe.

So I have accomplished most of the goals that I set out to do as a small girl. The one goal that has not yet been reached is that of having my own family. As many of you know, Brandon and I have tried for the past 13 years to have our own family and have not been successful in this endevor. We have gone through the pain of being so excited knowing we were pregnant just to have our hopes and dreams crushed by the lose of the pregnancy. Because we want to have a family of our own so badly we took this desire to the Lord. We prayed for answers of how it was we were to have our family and were guided to adoption. We understand that this is a huge sacrifice for someone else as well as our selves to put all of our trust and faith in the Lord.

I have empty arms and they long to be filled with the warm and sweetness of a child that I can call my own. I am asking with all of the fiber of my being that you will pass on our adoption link to everyone that you know. Brandon and I have so much love to give. We cherise the time we get to spend with our nieces and nephews and the wonderful kiddos of our friends but it is very lonely for us when we leave them or they leave us. We want to be able to bring our own kids to the playdates and birthdays that we so happliy and love to participate in.

Please, please forward our request to all that you know.

https://www.itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/23312083/ourMessage.jsf

I know that I have a choice to be happy no matter what life has instore for me and that I infact get to choose many of the things life brings, but for those things that I do not get to choose I will keep praying and living to be able to experience the life that God feels is right for me. Thanks to all who love and support us in all that we do, we feel your love and prayers daily in our lives and love you all so very much.
I am going to try to live life like the song says,"It's not the breaths you take but the moment that take your breath away". I hope that all of you will too!

~ Sharon ~

Birthday Wishes Come True!

2011-02-13T22:48:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to get on and say that I have the best family and friends anyone could dream of. Even though all of their lives are so hetic and full of all sorts of activities they took time out of their very busy schedules to make time for me and make my birthday special. Thank you so very much for loving me that much! I truly and blessed.
One of my wishes this year was to feel the love of my Savior in my life. I asked for this wish only because lately I have been pondering why it is we go through trials in our lives. I think that I still have a lot to learn but here are some of the things that I have discovered so far:
My Savior Jesus Christ died for me and suffered for MY sins, He loved me that much. Things that are put in our path are always for our growth, even when we don't understand why (this one is a little harder to accept sometimes), there are things that we are going to have to face in life that no one wants to face or have to go through, as long as I am in the drivers seat and the Lord is my co-pilot (if you will) I can accomplish anything. Many of these things are known by many, truth be told I guess I already knew it too. I am just so glad that I have constant reminders in my life that tells me I am a daughter of God and the I am loved unconditionally by him and my Savior. I am so blessed to have a loving husband who continues to keep me going when all I want to do is throw my hands in the air and say no more I am done! Thank you Brandon for loving me that much. Thank you to all of my family and friends that have helped me through the past year, as some of the hurdles are being passed and celebrated as a new anniversary I truly am amazed at how I have been able to overcome and conquer what has been put in my path, I could not have accomplished it all without your continued support either. I do not know how I will ever repay you all, please know how grateful I am and how much I love each and everyone of you. May we all feel the love of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as we continue through the journey we call life.

Holiday Fun and the New Year

2011-01-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with my family. I can't believe that it is almost over. Even though school has started back up for all of them I am still enjoying the time here with them.

When I arrived in Utah it was raining and I was not to excited about it, but the following morning I woke up to 20" of fresh new snow. It was so exciting to see how excited my family from Texas was about the opportunity to play in the snow. Wyatt and Alyssa really don't remember the snow like that, Kristin and Dustin were so excited and stayed out in it for a really long time. They loved sledding behind the 4-wheeler and the small sledding hill we made in the back yard.

We had 22 of us on one day all together and it was like old times, loud and chaotic, just the way I remember it. Even though not all 32 of us were not all together at the same time it has been fun to see all of them.

Brandon and I had the opporunity to go visit friends in Logan and his sister from Vegas. We got to see my Grandmother and cousins from southern Utah. I am really tired of traveling from place to place but I wouldn't change it for the world.

I have scrapbooked with my mom, sisters, and neices and have raced cars with my nephews. Played games way to late into the night/morning and have relished in the joy on the faces of the little ones as they have opened their Christmas presents.
(I will post pictures soon of all the fun!)

As this new year begins I hope to make it even better than the last. I am going to try harder to be more appreciative of the things I have in my life instead of dwelling on the things I don't have. I am going to work on the things that I have cntorl over and not worry so much on the things I can't control. I am going to strive harder in my school work and be more loving to my family.

Most of all I am going to try harder to thank God for the blessings in my life everyday whether small or large. I am going to shower my wonderful husband with love and devotion and give the support he gives to me.

I hope that as this new year gets on its way we will all take a moment to thank God for the things they have in their life that they are thankful for and that they will take the challenge to do better in whatever aspect they need a little bit of work on in their lives. May God keep all of us in his arms and heart this coming year.

Happy 2011 family and friends! We love and appreciate all of you!

Sharon and Brandon

Christmas at HOME!

2010-12-16T00:19:00.000-08:00

I can't describe how excited I am to be going home for Christmas this year. I know that I should be grateful to spend Christmas with Brandon's family but there is just something about being HOME with my family for the holidays. Karen (twin) is coming home to so that makes it that much more special. I don't even care if I open one gift, being able to be there with them is enough for me. I have had half of my suitcase packed for a month, I am crazy I know but just can't wait.

I hope that all of my family and friends find joy and happiness this year and that they will be able to enjoy the holiday season. MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Christmas Is In The Air

2010-12-04T02:42:00.000-08:00

It seems like the Christmas Spirit is already in the air. I love this time of year. I love the music, lights, family parties, smells, and of course the gifts. I know most of you are probably thinking it is because I love to receive gifts, which is true, I also love to give gifts. I love to watch family and friends open up what it is I have gotten them. I know that sometimes they don't quite know what to say to what it is I give them but that is part of the fun. I can't wait for Brandon to open his gifts this year. We don't have any money to speak of so I had to get a little creative. I can't wait to go home to be with my family in Utah and I can't wait to squeeze all of those wonderful neices and nephews! Well until later, keep that Christmas Spirit alive in all that you do!

Just a quick reminder, Sunday,December 5, 2010, I will be singing with the community choral for the Messiah. It is at the LDS Stake House right by Wasilla High School. It starts at 7:30! Love you see you all there! Come and enjoy the season through song!

2010-12-04T02:19:00.001-08:00

Winter Fun

2010-11-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

So grateful today for family and friends. So very grateful for a wonderful husband that loves me unconditionally! For a warm fire and delicious pie. I am so thankful for the land that I live in that is free and allows me to worship how I wish. I am grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ. We took some pictures today and thought that we would share them with you. Hope you enjoy them.

Make your own scrapbook

Fun Fall Pictures!

2010-11-22T00:42:00.000-08:00

I know that this is a little late in getting posted, We actually have snow on the ground now, but I thought that I would post them so that my wonderful family and friends could enjoy them. Brandon and I went to Hatcher's Pass a couple of times after church and we really enjoyed our time together! We hope that you enjoy them too!

Scrapbook design customized with Smilebox

The "Mighty Hunter"

2010-10-31T17:13:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been forever since I posted anything. So sorry to those that follow closely! I will try to do better! Let me recap for you quickly before I get to the "Mighty Hunter" section.

Lets see school started in September so I am back working with the kids everyday. I so enjoy working with them. I start out the day in a kindergarten class for reading, boy they are so smart! then it is off to the playground. It has been a little bit of a challenge this year, we have a new section of playground equipment, super fun, but crazy at times with all that want to be on it. After recess I spend the afternoon and early evening in the daycare. I guess you could say I am a sucker for being around kids, I love them all though!
I am stil in the Stake Young Women's and Brandon is the 11 year old scout leader. We are very excited about this year and what it might bring. Brandon and I are both going to school and trying to fit everything else into our spare time. It just seems like there isn't enough time in the day to get everything done sometimes but we seem to keep managing. I am sure it is because of our families that help us out so much! Thank You!

Ok so on to the "Mighty Hunter" story:

Brandon, Brett, Laurie (Brett's wife) and I decided to go hunting last weekend. Brett and I drew out for a tier II caribou hunt. The area for the hunt is about 3 hours away so we packed up all of the gear and the 4-wheelers and we were off. We spent the night in Glennallen, at the caribou lodge, it was pleasant but very short since we left 4 hours late! You know how things just seem to take longer when you have a schedule...we woke up and finished driving to where Brandon had scouted earlier in the week. There were more hunters than I have seen. They were everywhere. It seemed like every truck we pasted that the was set of antlers and a body peeking out. I was super excited to get out there a slay me a big one. Along the way we say several herds but they were out quite a bit and we decided to keep going to see if we could find a herd closer to the road, well just that happened. We saw a herd at the base of a small hill and we were off. Brett and Laurie went one way and Brandon and I went the other to help push them towards the base of the hill. Well Brett shot and nailed one, I on the other hand wasn't quite fast enough, the herd went up the hill before I got close enough to shoot. So after helping Brett dress his caribou we started searching for another herd so that I could shoot one. It seemed like every where we went they were either way far out or there were hunters already there. I was getting very discouraged. Just before sunset we were on our way back down off the mountain and I spotted a caribou all by himself. Lets just say I took "8" shots and we left without one for me. Was not the kind of weekend I had planned.
I stewed upon this all week, I was so mad at myself for missing not once but "8" times. Brandon kept telling me not to worry about it, after all it was 400 yards out and it was getting dark. That only seemed to help for a short time. Wednesday after work, Brandon and I went target shooting once again to see if I could get a little more practice in before we went out agian. We discovered that I really can hit what it is I am trying to shoot as long as I use the scope correctly. Well Friday night (10/29) Brandon and I drove back up to Paxson to see if we could slay me a caribou. We decided to sleep in the truck to safe money for our trip south for Christmas. Lets just say, it was cold, and very uncomfortable. I am not sure either one of us slept very much. We got up around 7:30 and headed to the Paxson lodge to ready ourselves for the day. As we started out from the lodge, there were not very many hunters out. I don't know if it was because of the 2 feet of snow on the ground or if they were just waiting for the fog to lift. We drove past a few herds way out again in hopes we could find one closer to the road. We did, and by the time I got out of the truck and ready they were about 400 yards off again and climbing up and over the hill. I decided not to trace after them and we headed back down the road. No more than 10 minutes later, I was standing off the side of the road. We pulled up on a small herd, about 5, there was a nice size bull in the herd, Brandon said, "Go get him". I slowly and as quitely as I could opened the truck door and drove a bullet into the chamber of my gun, I took aim and shot, missed, cocked it one more time and repositioned on my target. Shoot and watched him stumble a little. He was about 135 yard off the road and Brandon said, you got him, follow him. I started up the side of the hill. Brandon caught up to me and we climbed over the crest of the hill, there he was, laying on the next little hill. He was just staring at us. I had hit him but not killed him. I took aim and once more took a shot. I have to say it was a very exciting and nerve racking experience. I am so glad for the experience and know now that the next time I want my shot to be even more accurate the first time so that I don't have to hike as far or I need to shoot in a an area that lets us use the 4-wheeler. I know it is pretty silly but I named my dead caribou "mortimer". Here is the reason why, morty was once and he is no more. We had to drag him off the mountain, he weighs about 250 lbs and I was so glad that Brandon was there to help me. Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Here is a picture from Brandon's scouting trip

More of Brandon's scouting trip

and more caribou....

And here is "Mortimer"...isn't he a beauty!!!

This is what our drive was like....beautiful landscape...

This is the way you ride a 4-wheeler around where I shot Mortimer....UGH!!!
We couldn't even take it out of the truck, that is subsistance hunts for ya,
pulling him off the mountain was not that fun.....he was heavy! I still do not know
how we got him into the truck with just the two of us. Brandon was like Superman!

And I wouldn't have been able to do it with out his help! Thanks babe!
I Love You!

A few more pics from our drive

I love it when the snow is like this on the trees!

Well there you have it. My story of how I got Mortimer! I can now say that I am a "True" Alaskan!

Our True Identity

2010-07-23T23:15:00.000-07:00

This video has stirred in me a new sense of who I am and who my beautiful neices and young women are. What a wonderful reminder we have been given to remember.

Our True Identity

12th Anniversary

2010-07-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Brandon and I decided that we wanted to do something fun for our anniversary this year but as most years at this time we have no money. What to do for a cheap date??? We decided to take in the beauty that was around us. We first started here....

Standing at the top of the Little-su

I just love the colors that were showing on this very sunny day! It waw 75 degrees YEA!

The water was so beautiful that we couldn't help but take a few pictures...

I just wanted to go play in it, but I didn't!

One of the next stops that we made was to a little icecream shop that serves flavored icecream. It was so delicious. I would have taken pictures but we ate it really fast. Sorry for those that wanted to see my Watermellon and Brandon's Strawberry-cheesecake indulgence.

Brandon asked me if I wanted to watch a movie or still explore the valley, because it was so beautiful and the sun was out I decided that I just couldn't watch a movie so I told him we could go fishing instead! Those that know Brandon can guess that he was more than happy to go....We decided to go to Cottonwood River, which is more like a small creek. Since I wasn't sure I wanted to throw a line in I took my book (last vol. Prelude to Glory) and Brandon, Drake and I were off!

Here we are ready to slay a big one!

I wanted to get him casting but he was behine the long grass and down along the bank and I was stuck in my chair!

It wouldn't be a family trip if we didn't take Drake with us! So we brought him with us. Live just wouldn't be the same if he wasn't with us. As you will see that he loves to come and he loves the water.....

This one kind of reminds me of home and what the farms use to look like all green with the mountains in the back ground

Here is one of the pictures we took of just how beautiful it was that day

The fishing didn't really go the way Brandon planned. We could see several in the river but just couldn't seem to get one to bite. So we decided that we would go out to Pt. McKenzie. We did stop to take a few pictures along the way!

On our way to Pt. McKenzie

Beautiful pic of the Bay

We had such a wonderful drive out to Pt. McKenzie. It was so green and beautiful. Along the way there is a very strange site that you see, I have no idea how it got there, how long it has been there, and why someone just left it there.....

Boat in marsh....what more can I say? It is pretty cool though

We drove out to the Game Ranch, which is owned by family friends Del Ray and Caroline Hobbs, I was hoping to see the buffalo or elk but we didn't see them. So we decided to head over to the bottom of the Little-su. It was beautiful there too....

So green and lucious

Some how Brandon got the camera yet again, but it is so wonderful around me I just had to share

Did I mention that Brandon loves to fish? He thought maybe he would try here....water was high and he didn't bring his waders with us down the trail, maybe next time......

Yes, I got to capture the one I love, he is so amazing!!!!

Did I mention that our (child) lovable pooch loves the water???? I think his best friend is a stick.

We weren't planning on being at the river very long, one cast, a few pictures, and then we would be on our way. We were very close to getting a ticket. We should always pay the fee no matter what! I don't know what we were thinking!

Twelve years ago I went from this.....

Engagement

Married in Manti Temple

First years...

Wow we were so young

A few years later.......

Several moves later........We ended up in Alaska

Several adventures later..........

Here we are stronger than ever and so very grateful that we have one another. We can't wait to spend twelve more and beyond together! I know that I found someone that I can call my best friend!
I love you "B"

Bikes to Skagway

2010-07-02T23:19:00.000-07:00

So I have mentioned to many of you that Brandon and his brother and father were going to ride their motorcycles to Skagway this summer in prepartation for the big ride all the way down the Alcan Highway, well I decided that I needed to post some pictures of our trip so here you go........

Brandon and Brett giving their best "GQ" look...

It was quite the ordeal getting everything ready to go. We had 4 motorcylcles (Dean, Brandon, Brett and Laurie) 2 dogs, one 8-yr old, one 4 month old, and 5 audlts in the two vehicles. We packed all of the extra motorcycle gear and camping gear in the back of the truck along with Drake. It only took us 2-3 hours to leave after our designated departure time. Those that went with us were....

Pictured from L to R: Laurie (Brett's Wife) Brett, Dean, Me, Brandon, Mason Mark's son) Susie, Mark (Susie's Husband) Deana, Raylee, and Ann

You probably are wondering why we chose to go to Skagway, well as you will see it is georgous this time of year and Brandon's Aunt Karla and Uncle Duff are amazing!

We have several picture spots that are traditional stops for us the first being the Matanusk Glacier

We always take a picture here unless we can't there because of snow, the picture really doesn't do it justice.

It is about 90 minutes from Wasilla so we like to go there and Mason and I even tried out the telescope.

Mason is eight years old and this was his first trip to Alaska, it was so fun to hear and see his reactions to the great outdoors.

As you can imagine we had to make several stops along the way to let the motorcylers rest their booties!

We had to make at least 5 stops to fill-up the motorcycles. It was a great break for everyone due to tight riding quarters. Each time we stopped Raylee would get out of her chair which she didn't like and a few times we watered the dogs.

Deana, Raylee and Rico

(Mason in his very small corner)

He was such a trooper. He watched his video player or played his digi the whole way and rarely complained about anything. He asked the usual questions of "Are we there yet?" "Can I have another twister(twizzler)?" and of course the famous "Do I have to?" Ann and I couldn't have rode with another 8-yr old that had as nice as manners as Mason! He truly was an excellent passenger.

The weather on the trip for the most part was very nice, we had

sunshine for most of the ride, But there was aslo losts of rain and you couldn't help but feel sorry for the guys on the bikes.

It seemed like everytime they put their rain gear on because we were heading into gray clouds it would sprinkle but when it looked like it would be nice riding they would hit a down pour. They were all such good sports about having to put on and take off their rain gear.

Next we came to the 1/2 way point basically, the border of Alaska and the Yucon.

The pathway you can see behind Dean actually goes along the border on each side. It is quite the sight.
Shortly before we got to Destruction bay we drove past a few friends........

While I was taking pictures of these two very close friends you could hear the brown bear snorting. You normally don't hear that unless they are aggrivated. We didn't stay long since the bikers were very exposed. Mason was so excited to see "Wild Life" since we really hadn't seen that many moose along the way.

The trip down to Skagway took us a day and a half, we camped the first night at a campground near Destruction Bay.

We had a lot of fun unpacking and getting everyones gear out for the night. Mason and Grandma had fun making Smores.

We started out the next morning with new vigor and not much rest. Before we left we took in the beautiful lake around the campground.

When we finally go to Skagway I think that we were all excited to be there. It was a very long process getting there. I decided that I would jump on the bike with Brandon in Whitehorse it was really fun to ride down the pass on the bike.

The view of the pass was amazing, I wish I could ride and take pictures all at the same time. When we got to the border we were at a stand still due to the buses and campers in front of us checking passports and ID's . It was fun to just relax a little in such beauty. Mason I think had the most fun, he got to ride the motorcycle for a short while.

So here are few pictures coming into Skagway

Going through White Pass

We had a lot of fun seeing all of the fun sites. We had the opportunity of hiking up to lower falls and to "Soapy Smith's " grave. It was so fun to take in all of the beauty. We even had fun with Drake and a tennis ball.

Brandon throwing the ball for Drake

Brandon and I at Lower lake

Brandon, Drake and I at the Reed falls

The famous "Soapy Smith" pose at Soapy's grave.

Reed Falls... Do I need to say more....

Along the trail in the cemetary on the way down from Reed Falls...

Here are some random shots we took around town....

Standing in front of the Kone

One type of tourist transportation

A few of us stopped to have some much needed Ice-cream. Brandon's Aunt and Uncle own the shop! If you are ever there you need to go the shop is called the "Kone Kompany". Very Delicious!

As you can see, Raylee was very ready to be out of her car-seat and done for the day!

Duff (Brandon's uncle) was good enough to take a few of us out fishing which was really fun.

Just kicking back wiating for the fish!

Dad inspecting the boat!

Sharon's silver salmon that was too short!

Mason and his silver salmon. He did not want to touch it! Thank heavens Uncle "B" was willing to help!

Mason and I caught some really nice silver salmon but we couldn't keep them, they were about 2inches to short to keep by regulations. Mason was not happy to hear that. We still had fun though.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Skagway for tourists, but if you have been there done that you go to the places you know are just absoutely beautiful. Here is a pic from Dyea (pronounced die e)

Love the views of the different bays around here. You can't really see how beautiful it truly is from pictures this is definitely a must see place.

The other thing that I love about Skagway is the views you have from almost everywhere. You can see the docks from Duff and Karla's and it is so beautiful at night. Unfortunetly this trip I couldn't capture the cruise ships at night due to the rain but I did get one during the day which is pretty cool.

Our trip was so amazing, we had our ups and downs but what family vaction doesn't? As per family tradition we took a family photo of everyone there with the cousins. What an adventure.

Pictured from L to R (backrow) Brandon, Mark, Susie, Dean, Ann, Laurie, Brett, Duff (front row) Sharon, Mason, Deana (holding) Raylee, Mindee, Karla, Kristin and of course the one who is always behind the camera, Andy.

We did have fun while we were there. We decided to make going home a little bit more challenging. We did what the Ray family calls "Bombed" it. Which means we drove straight through, only stopping for gas refill, food and potty stops. We left at about 9:30am from Skagway and pulled into the driveway at about 4:30am. It was a long ride home but none of us really wanted to sleep on the hard ground, let a lone have to unpack and repack the truck and all of the gear. It is so funny how you can tell yourself that you need to make sure you don't go overboard with buying new items because of the limited space that you have. We never listen. I know that we increased the number of bags in the truck by at least 5. Even though we had some ups and downs along the way it was a very nice trip. I have learned that when your niece rolls over for the first time and that her mother didn't see it, don't say anything. When you have more than 2 adults making decisions that you will never agree on what the plan is, and that no matter what you plan for something will always go wrong! Thank heavens for the words "I am so sorry!" I truly am greatful to be able to spend time with Brandon's family. Well I guess you could say........

One more family vacation down, hopefully several more to come!

Bed Rest

2010-07-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

I decided that today I just needed to say a few words about having to stay in bed. Those of you out there that can do it without getting restless and frustrated I applaud you! I am going crazy! I have the best support system around but I am really ready to be back to normal! The recovery is going well just slow! Thank you for sending well wishes and love! It is hard to rely on others when you are use to doing things yourself so to my wonderful husband, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for putting up with my impatience and frustration. I couldn't get through this with out you! I promise to post pictures of our Skagway trip soon! Unitl next time, keep your chins up and know I love you all!

Adoption

2010-05-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

Brandon and I are excited that our adoption profile is up and going. We are so thankful to everyone that has been so supportive in this adventure. We hope that you will share our link with everyone you know!

https://www.itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/23312083/ourMessage.jsf

Thanks

My Cancer Story

2010-05-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Life never quite stays the same for long; I found this fact to be true yet again, on July 16, 2009. I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I can truly say that I was only slightly shocked when the tests confirmed it. I had suspected it due to an ultrasound I had earlier that week. You know working in a doctor's office has its downfalls. You learn things you wish you hadn’t.

When I received the phone call from my doctor, who was very kind and willing to give me the rest of his day for questions and support, I knew that I had to have help from my Heavenly Father. I immediately went to my knees. I started to share my fears with him and while I was voicing concerns at the shock that was just given, I had an overwhelming calm come to me, I then knew that what I really should be praying for was the strength and courage I would need to face this next hurdle that had been placed before me. After I finished praying I called my husband, he happened to be out of town. After I spoke with him I just started back into my day. Trying to be strong and not think about it.

I was in charge of t-shirts for youth conference and needed to get them to the church. On the way to the church I called and talked with my parents. I told them that the ultrasound did indeed confirm that I had cancer. They were both very supportive and kept calm, which really helped since I was driving. My father gave me a wonderful piece of advice that helped calm my heart and soul he said, “As long as you are in the driver’s seat you can make it through anything”. How true these words would come to be. After arriving at the church I called my doctor who happened to be a member of my faith, I asked for a priesthood blessing. He offered a wonderful blessing assuring me that the Lord loved me and was aware of my situation and circumstance in life. Through him, the Lord was able to reassure me that I would be ok, the road that I was about to travel would be hard that I would have questions and concerns and that there would be things that would cause me to fear but I would be ok. My journey through life was not yet finished. From there things just started to happen.

After it really sunk in that I did indeed have cancer my mind started to whirl in all sorts of directions. I started having all kinds of questions. Ok, so what is going to happen? Who can I talk to? How is this going to affect my life? What is this going to do to my relationship with my husband? Then all of a sudden it was more than just questions. I was on a mission to answer them. All at once I found myself searching for more information. I called a friend I knew that was going through cancer. She would say, you need to do this, you need to do that and I would do it. Not long after I found out, things began to happen. It was a little overwhelming. I was seeing doctors right and left. I started to feel like a human pin cushion. They ran test after test to see what stage and grade of cancer I had. It was during this time that I learned that I didn’t have a death sentence, answering one of the fears that I had.

I remember sitting in the doctor’s office and having the doctor ask me if I wanted to have the lumps removed or if I wanted them to cut my breast off instead. What kind of question is that? How are you suppose to answer that? I know that at that point my mind went somewhere else and it was my husband that started listening for both of us. During the weeks leading up to my decision to have a mastectomy my mind was filled with a million questions but some how I found my self at peace even though there were tough decisions to be made. I knew that no matter what decision I made that the Lord would be there to help me through it. I had several discussions with my family members and friends that I had told. They all helped ease my mind and help answer questions. The only question that kept coming back to me was; I am going to look like a freak? The other thoughts that came to mind were, Why me? Is Brandon going to love me differently? Will I feel like me? It was SCARY! It was TOUGH! and it truly SUCKED!!! No one wants to have to make the decision of whether to have their breast removed or not. After my decision was made I felt at peace and knew that I would be ok; and that no matter what, I could make it through anything. I knew that things would be hard and that it wouldn't be easy, but I have been given a purpose here on the earth and it is not yet fullfilled.

After things were in motion I started to feel like I was floating on a cloud. I scheduled my surgery and started all of the preparations for that. I was so grateful that my parents were able to come and be here with me for that. I was sitting in the living room with my mom the night before my surgery and I remember asking her, why me again? I have been through so much already. Why can’t someone else have the hard trial? She told me, “You know that is not how the Lord works and he is here holding both of us, he knows you are scared, he loves you, he doesn’t want you to have to go through this, but you are and he is carrying you”. I knew she was right. The next morning while I was waiting to go into the operating room I once again asked for reassurance from Brandon and my parents that I would be ok. It took a little convincing again. But I knew they were right when they told me everything would be ok. We had one last prayer and they took me into surgery. After surgery was all over I felt at peace. I knew I was going to be ok. It is funny though; I thought that I would hurt a lot more than I did. Boy drugs now days are awesome.

I came home from the hospital the next day and the healing process began. It was a little easier than I thought it was going to be. I was able to eat, sleep and really rest. I had so many friends come and wish me well. They pampered me and I was amazed at the outpouring of charity that I received. When it came time for my parents to go back home I was so sad, my mom had been my right arm, literally. I didn’t know if I was going to make it. She had been helping me get dressed for the last two weeks. Brandon reassured me that he knew how to button a shirt and put on socks. He was right! He was so kind and patient with me during those first few days. I truly am blessed to have him as my husband. For the next few weeks I concentrated on taking care of me and getting better. It was during this time that I went to get fitted for my prosthesis. I was really nervous about it and asked my best friend to come with Brandon and me so that I could have a women’s point of view. She helped make that day light and fun instead of dreadful and daunting. I also was given instructions of how to take care of my arm and how I could regain some of the strength in my arm. Brandon and I visited the Cancer Society in Anchorage and attended the Look Better Feel Better class. What an amazing opportunity this was. They answered some of the questions I was having. I was very nervous about loosing my hair. I didn’t want to loose my hair, I was known for and by my red hair. During these classes, I learned how to take care of my skin and how to enhance the beauty I had. They told us, that being bald was going to be an experience for growth. I would have to learn to use courage and strength and that no matter what I was still going to be beautiful.

It had been about a three weeks since my surgery and I was getting anxious staying at home. I wanted to travel. I was blessed to be able to travel at this time. I was so excited that I left to as soon as possible to spend time with my family. While I was in Utah I went to my niece Alli's wedding, it was AWESOME!!! I also went to a family reunion. The part of the vacation that probably was the most exciting and helpful for me was the surprise party that my sisters put on for me. They invited all of my family and friends to my parents home, where they gave me a “Hat”itude party.
It was to help prepare me for chemo and loosing my hair. The decorations and food that was prepared were all pink and everyone was instructed to wear hats and to bring me a hat or scarf I could wear during my chemo treatments. I couldn't have asked for a better break right before my chemo treatments started. I felt such and amazing love from all of these women, and of course by the rest of my family members. Shortly before my chemo treatments were to start they performed another surgery to install what is called a port into my chest. This would allow easier access for my infusions. It was a little nerve racking having to have another surgery. It went off with out any problems. The days leading up to my first chemo treatment seemed to fly right by. Before I knew it the day was here.

September 14, 2009 started the next part of my cancer journey. Treatment day was here. I was scheduled to have 8 sessions of chemo; I would go in every other Monday and receive my treatments. The treatments that were going to be given to me are referred to as duo dense. They pretty much gave me rat poision during each treatment and then tried to make me better again with a shot the next day. The wonderful nurses at the treatment center made me feel calm. They talked me through everything that was going to happen. I was on the next stretch of my journey and they were going to be there right beside me. I would go in every other week and set in a very comfortable chair and received my treatments. I would be able to talk with Brandon, friends, watch TV, talk with other patients or sleep. When I had received all that was needed I would then go home. After my 2nd treatment I noticed that my hair was starting to come out more and more. It was very disheartening to discover that the one thing I really wasn't looking forward to was starting to happen. I knew it normally came between the 2nd and 3rd treatment session, I was hoping that my case would wait until the 3rd but apparently it had a different idea. I had mixed emotions during this week about what was happening. At first I thought I could handle the fact that every time I put my fingers in my hair that I would pull 30-50 strands of hair out but by Wednesday that week I was starting to really become very upset about it. I tried to get Brandon and his mom Ann to shave my head for me that night but they talked me into waiting just a few more days stating that it still looked ok. But Thursday brought even more hair into my brush and fingers and it was starting to be more than I could handle. I had been given a name of a fellow cancer survivor who had a hair salon that was willing to help those of us battling cancer as she did.

Betty, the salon owner, was amazing! She was so positive and upbeat about what it was I was there for. So I did it, I had my head shaved! She talked me through everything, and she shared her story with Brandon and me as she proceeded to shave me. She even let me shave a few strips. Doing so was actually was very liberating. She helped me find and shape wigs that fit me and my personality. She also helped me see that wearing a wig could be fun. That “Bald is beautiful!” She truly made the part that I was dreading, not so scary and faceable. After all it was only hair and; It Is What It Is. She truly was an angel in a world of despair. She did this all at no charge to me. She is an awesome cancer survivor that gives back very liberally. I hope that I can follow in her foot steps.

During chemo I was pretty tired week after week and I truly felt like I had been hit by a freight train. I had heard it said that it got worse each time. I found that this was pretty true. When friends and family would ask how I was I would say I am fine. They use to say how sorry they were and I would say “It Is What It Is”. I didn’t really want to let them all in. On the outside where everyone could see me I needed to be fine. I didn’t want to share what was going on inside. Inside where no one could see; I was a mess. I was becoming mad at the fact that I was going through this. Why was it always me in the trial? I thought everyone else was having it easy. I didn’t want to share that side with everyone. I shared it only with Brandon, I knew he would just listen and then reassure me it was ok to feel like that. I didn’t realize however that the drugs were also agitating me. I had started hurting the ones that I loved. I couldn’t see that I was changing not only physically but emotionally and mentally as well. With treatments # 5 and #6 I was given a drug they call taxol. That is exactly what it was; “taxing”. It was whipping most of my energy out of me. During this time I started experiencing what they call peripheral neuropathy. It made some tasks very hard, not undoable but very hard. It was like is having dead weight; or a better way to describe it would probably be having your feet and hands fall asleep, and not being able to wake them up. You end up having to use them like that anyway. I also had a continuous ache throughout my lower legs that felt like I had just ran a marathon and couldn't seem to get them to function. For the most part I was able to get along with lots of patience from Brandon and his mom. I was still able to do most everything for myself. When Thanksgiving came around, things got worse. I woke up in the middle of the night with excruciating pain. I was unable to walk on my own. I was terrified that this would be permanent. I was embarrassed that I needed help to do some of the simplest things. After knowing that I was going to be ok, I found my self praying for patience as well as for those around me to have patience with me. It was truly a humbling experience knowing that I had to rely on others for help. When my chemo treatments were all done I had a party!

After chemo was done for me; my next step was radiation. This, I was not looking forward to. I am very fair skinned and knew that I would probably burn quickly. I went to the radiologists and she informed me that I had to have 33 treatments. So the next journey began. I would go in everyday and have my session of radiation. The first 10 sessions came and went without any problems. When I started getting ready on day 11 I noticed that I was very sore and that my skin was very tight. This only proved to be the start of a very bad day. When I got to radiation the doctor informed me that I would have to take a break. My skin was not doing well. I was not happy! This would be the first of 3 breaks I had to take. I would go through a few days of rest and then another few sessions and then another break. March 13, 2010 was a “graduation” if you will. My last session of radiation! I was finished, no more appointments everyday. What a true relief, I had done everything that was necessary for me as a cancer patient. Shortly after I was finished with all of my treatments I received a letter in the mail stating that I had completed all of the treatments and that I was cancer free.

I am truly grateful for the miracle of medicine. I am so grateful that they are able to detect and treat cancer in the early stages. I know that I have been watched over and protected during this journey. As I start the next part of my journey, reconstruction; I am amazed at the love and support that I have received from those that have just heard about my situation. I have come in contact with so many women that have gone through what I went through and still have yet gone through. We have been able to share our experiences. We have been able to help support one another. The one thing that I have been able to realize about the whole process is that no matter how you try to live, cancer is not something that needs to be feared. If the “C” word makes an appearance, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. I only share my story so that others might find strength if needed and education for those that help to provide strength and courage to others. We have technology today that helps us know things far in advance if we are in need of help. Please do not put off a mammogram, it could save your life. Please remember that Cancer is survivable, as long as you are in the driver’s seat and you are in control, you have nothing to fear. After all, “It Is What It Is!”

I'm Done

2009-12-29T13:41:00.000-08:00

Well I hope that all of you had a wonderful Christmas. I actually had a great Christmas. I went in for my last treatment on the 21st and when I asked what my levels where and wether or not I would have to have the shot on the 22nd they told me that I didn't have too. It has been the source we believe of alot of the pain that I have been experiencing. I didn't have to have it and so I was mostly pain free for the Holiday. I have now completed all of the Chemo treatments and I went in yesterday to check all of my levels and they were where they were suppose to be YEA!! That means I am totally done with the Chemo process, no extra fluids or shots for me! Next week I go in to discuss the next steps and we are moving on with this process. I can't wait for it to all be over. I know that I said I would be better at this and I promise to try and be better.

I am starting school back up on Monday and I am excited to be back in the classroom again and to see the kids on the playground. I hope that my legs and hands are working much bettter by then. I am starting to getting feeling back in them I am just a little worried about being outside in the cold with them. I guess I will have to bundle even more. Good thing I have good winter gear.

I had an excellent Christmas, I received teh Willowtree Nativity pieces from Mom, Aunt Greta, and Brandon and I love it. I haven't set it all up yet but I have taken pieces out to see them and I can't wait. It is very interesting living limited space! I also received some fun cartridges for my cricket and I can't wait to use them.

Well I need to get lunch on for Brandon so I will sign off for now but i will kepp you posted on life and the happenings hear. Love and Miss you all!